Abstract:

Objective: To determine the persistence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADHD) into adulthood in parents of children diagnosed with ADHD and currently attending
child and adolescent psychiatric clinics (located at a tertiary academic hospital and a community
based clinic). Method: A structured questionnaire was completed by 58 parents of ADHD
children. Those parents identified as having childhood ADHD were further required to complete a
screening questionnaire for adult ADHD. Results: 37.9% (22) of the 58 participants were
found to have had childhood ADHD. Of these 22 participants 36.4% (8) were still found to have
symptoms suggestive of ADHD. Conclusion: Childhood ADHD has been reconceptualised as a
lifespan disorder. Our study was in keeping with other studies showing a persistence of ADHD
symptoms into adulthood.

Description:

Previously published as the Journal of Depression and Anxiety until Volume 4, Issue
4, Nov 2001, ISSN 15600181. First volume of the South African Psychiatry Review published as
Volume 5, Issue 1, Feb 2002, ISSN 18117805. Advertisement(s) omitted on page(s) 99-102.